The ear plugs are more of a preventative measure. I've found that I can make it through the store without them, or sunglasses, but I"ll pay for it for the rest of the day. I wear both because they filter out extra stimulation that my brain can't handle. So when I get home, I can feel like my semi-normal self, rather than crap for the rest of the day. For me it's all about filtering out extra stimulation.

At first they did cause increased symptoms for an hour or so after. However my therapist geared them back to make them simpler for my brain to handle. From that point on, I might feel a little goofy for a minute or two, but it's nothing that doens't resolve quickly.

How long you do each exercise depends on what your current level of functioning is, etc when it comes to your vestibular system. A therapist would be able to help figure that out after an evaluation, and where you personally need to start and where your biggest weakenesses are, etc.

Honestly, I was starting to feel better after 2 weeks. I go once a week for an hour and work with a therapist. And then have a list of exercises each week to do at home daily. As with anything concussion related, it works for some, not for others. Some progress quickly, others take a while. I have been very blessed that it has worked for me, and I continue to make progress, even if it is slower than I would like.

If you have any other questions, don't hestitate to ask! It has helped me so much!